Groups propose resetting Baltimore election cycle

BALTIMORE - After a string of low-turnout elections in Baltimore, a coalition of groups is calling for the city to reset
its election cycle.

Representatives of the Baltimore Election Change Coalition are gathering Monday to propose bringing the city's elections in line with the statewide cycle to boost turnout and save money.

The city currently holds its local elections in the year after statewide elections and before presidential elections. Only about 22 percent of eligible voters cast ballots in last year's mayoral primary and turnout fell to about 13 percent in the general election.

A change has the support of some politicians, including Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake . However, syncing with the presidential cycle might be more popular because a move to the next statewide
election would shorten the terms of those currently serving.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)